The Phoenix Suns made an enormous change on Monday after they fired head coach Mike Budenholzer, and it appears like they might half methods with Kevin Durant subsequent.
Budenholzer has been fired after only one season with the Suns. The crew gained 36 video games and missed the playoffs this 12 months regardless of having the very best payroll within the NBA. One of many driving forces behind the choice was that Phoenix officers reportedly did not believe Budenholzer could coexist with Devin Booker, which had trickled all the way down to the remainder of the roster.
Budenholzer additionally butted heads with Durant throughout video games, which led to hypothesis that the Suns could fire the coach to appease their 15-time All-Star.
In keeping with ESPN’s Shams Charania, the Suns nonetheless may commerce Durant. A number of groups have authentic curiosity in pursuing Durant this summer time, and Phoenix is expected to entertain those discussions. The Suns have additionally expressed a willingness to work with Durant and his illustration to discover a suitor that is smart for all events.
The Suns are absolutely dedicated to Booker, who’s eight years youthful than the 36-year-old Durant. Bradley Beal has a full no-trade clause, so transferring him is probably not an possibility.
Durant continued to play at an elite degree this season. He averaged 26.6 factors, 6.0 rebounds and 4.2 assists per recreation. Most groups would haven’t any downside paying him the $55 million he’s owed subsequent 12 months, however Durant is alleged to be looking for a two-year, $120 million max contract extension. That would complicate commerce discussions.
The Suns entertained commerce provides for Durant on the deadline in February, however they have been reportedly asking for a massive haul in return.
One Western Convention contender has already emerged as the favorite to land Durant if the Suns wind up buying and selling the two-time NBA Finals MVP.
